One of the many aspects of Aikido that I appreciate is how it combines individual effort with group support.
In order to achieve any convincing level of skill in technique, the Aikidoist must make time to be in class, pay attention to the instruction, and struggle through the challenge of learning the techniques both as nage and uke. Individual effort.
At the same time, without a competent instructor and dedicated seniors (sempai), the aspiring student can make little progress. Group support.
Training is severe (shugyoh) but takes place in an atmosphere of mutual encouragement and empathy.
Is this not how much of life is? Each of us must do the best with what we have, yet attempts to do everything without assistance are often futile. So, commit yourself, but do not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. And, along the way, do not hesitate to support others who are also applying themselves, both on and off the mat.
